Pipeline Technologies v. Telog Instruments et. al.

7/27/2019 Pipeline Technologies v. Telog Instruments et. al.

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1 Paul A. Conant, 012667Melissa A. Emmel, 0231952 CONANT LAW FIRM, PLC2398 East Camelback Road, Suite 9253 Phoenix, Arizona 85016Telephone: 602.508.90104 Facsimile: 602.508.9015Email: [email protected]

5 Blake H. Frye, Pro Hac Vice application to be filed6 Julie Burke, Pro Hac Vice application to be filedJennifer Calvert, Pro Hac Vice application to be filed7 HILL, KERTSCHER & WHARTON, LLP3350 Riverwood Parkway, Suite 8008 Atlanta, Georgia 30339Telephone: 770.953.09959 Attomeys for plaintiff Pipeline Technologies, Inc., d/b/a Pipetech Intemational

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IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURTFOR THE DISTRICT OF ARIZONA

Pipeline Technologies, Inc., d/b/a Pipetech Case No.-------13 Intemationa1, Plaintiff,14 vs.15 Telog Instruments, Inc., and the AppliedProducts Group, LLC,16 : Defendants.17 '

COMPLAINT(Jury Trial Demanded)

COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT18 Plaintiff Pipeline Technologies, Inc. d/b/a Pipetech Intemationa1 ("Pipetech"), by an19 through its undersigned counsel, hereby files this Complaint for Patent Infringement, 20 follows:2122 -1-


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2 1.THE PARTIES

Plaintiff Pipetech is an Arizona corporation with its principal place of busine3 in Carefree, Arizona. Pipetech manufactures and sells devices that measure pressure 4 pipelines.5 2. Defendant Telog Instruments, Inc. ("Te10g") is a New York corporation whic6 may be served pursuant to the Arizona long-arm statute, Ariz. R. Civ. P. 4.2(a), through i7 Chief Executive Officer, Barry Ceci, at 830 Canning Parkway, Victor, New York 14568 Among its business interests, Te10g manufactures and sells devices that measure pressure 9 water pipelines. Telog is a direct competitor of Pipetech. Telog regularly sells its produc

10 throughout the United States, including Arizona.11

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3 . Defendant The Applied Products Group, LLC ("APG" and collectively wiTelog, "Defendants") is an Arizona limited liability company. APG may be served througits registered agent, Ronald R. Clark, at 31550 N. 90 th Street, Scottsdale, Arizona. APG Te1og's sales representative, selling Telog's products in Arizona, New Mexico and SoutheNevada.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

4. This is an action for patent infringement arising under the provisions of thPatent Laws of the United States ofAmerica, Title 35, United States Code.

5. Subject-matter jurisdiction over Pipetech's claims is conferred upon this Couby 28 U.S.C. 1331 (federal question jurisdiction) and 28 U.S.c. 1338(a) (patejurisdiction) .

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1 6. This Court has personal jurisdiction over Defendants because Defendants a

2 subject to general and specific jurisdiction in the State of Arizona. Defendants have ha3 substantial contacts with the forum that have been systematic and continuous such th4 personal jurisdiction is appropriate. Defendant APG is authorized to do business in th5 State of Arizona and regularly conducts such business. Defendant Telog, through its agen6 APG, sells andlor offers to sell products - namely pipeline pressure detection system7 (including the infringing devices specified herein) -- that are and have been used, offered f8 sale, sold andlor purchased in this judicial district. Defendants place their infringing devic9 within the stream of commerce, which stream is directed at this State and this distric

10 Therefore, the exercise ofpersonal jurisdiction over Defendants is reasonable and would n11 offend traditional notions of fair play and substantial justice.12 7. Venue is proper in this judicial district pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1391(b) an13 (c) and 1400(b).1415 8.

COUNT I - INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. 7,219,553Pipetech reasserts and incorporates herein by reference the allegations of a

16 preceding paragraphs of this Complaint as if fully set forth herein.17 9. On May 22, 2007, U.S. Patent No. 7,219,553 ("the '553 Patent"), a copy18 which is attached hereto as "Exhibit A," was duly and legally issued by the U. S. Patent an19 Trademark Office ("USPTO"). Pipetech is the owner by assigmnent of all right, title an20 interest in and to the '553 Patent, including all right to recover for any and all pa21 infringement thereof.22 -3-


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1 10. Upon information and belief, Defendants Telog and APG have in the past an2 continue to infringe, directly, indirectly, literally, under the doctrine of equivalent3 contributorily, andlor through the inducement of others, one or more of the claims of th4 '553 Patent by making, using, importing, selling andlor offering to sell,in this judici5 district and elsewhere in the United States, devices which are covered by at least one clai6 of the '553 Patent.7 11. At a minimum, the Telog LPR-3li and the Telog HPR-3li, used, sold andlo8 offered for sale by the Defendants, infringe one or more claims of the '553 Patent becau9 they include, among other things, a dynamic transient pressure sensor for installation in a

10 operating fluid chamber, a transmission system for transferring a signal indicating pressu11 within the operating fluid chamber to a receiver, a clock or timer for recordin12 chronological time detection, a signal processor for receiving signals and recording dat13 and a data management program for analyzing and displaying collected data, wherein th14 signal processor records data samples showing dynamic transient pressures above 15 threshold level to internal memory until pressure returns to a steady state or until the us16 specifies.17 12. As a consequence of Defendants' infringement of one or more claims of t18 '553 Patent, Pipetech is entitled to recover past damages in the form of, at a minimum,19 reasonable royalty.2021

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13. As a consequence of Defendants' infringement of one or more claims of t'553 Patent, Pipetech has sustained lost profits through lost andlor diminished sales of

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1 own product(s). Specifically, Pipetech has sold and continues to sell the Pipetech TP

2 Transient Pressure Monitoring System, which practices one or more claims of the '553 Patent that Defendants infringe. Pipetech properly marks its TP 1 Transient Pressu4 Monitoring System with the '553 Patent in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 287. Pipetech h5 sustained lost and/or diminished sales of the TPI Transient Pressure Monitoring System du6 to Defendants' infringement. Therefore, Pipetech is entitled to recover past damages7 compensation for its lost profits.8 14. Defendant Telog has continued to infringe one or more claims of the '559 Patent after Pipetech made Telog aware of the '553 Patent and Te10g had no reasonab

10 basis for reaching a good faith conclusion that its making, using or selling its devic11 avoided infringing claims of the '553 Patent. Furthermore, upon infonnation and belie12 Te10g continued to infringe one or more claims of the '553 Patent despite an objective13 high likelihood that its actions constituted infringement of a valid patent. The objective14 high likelihood that its actions constituted infringement of a valid patent was either know15 to Telog or was so obvious that it should have been known to Telog. Consequently, Telog16 infringement of one or more claims of the '553 Patent was willful and warrants an award17 increased damages pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 284.18 15. Upon information and belief, Defendants will continue to infringe the '5519 Patent unless enjoined by this Court.202122

16. As a consequence of the infringement by Defendants complained of hereiPipetech has been irreparably damaged to an extent not yet determined and will continue

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1 be irreparably damaged by such acts in the future unless Defendants are enjoined by th

2 Court from committing further acts of infringement. In the event the Court determines th3 it will not enter injunctive relief, then it should require Defendants to continue to pa4 royalties for their infringement of the '553 Patent on a going-forward basis.5 COUNT II - INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. 7,357,0346 17. Pipetech reasserts and incorporates herein by reference the allegations of a7 preceding paragraphs of this Complaint as if fully set forth herein.8 18. On April 15, 2008, U.S. Patent No. 7,357,034 ("the '034 Patent"), a copy9 which is attached hereto as "Exhibit B," was duly and legally issued by the USPTO

lO Pipetech is the owner by assigmnent of all right, title and interest in and to the '034 Paten11 including all right to recover for any and all past infringement thereof.12 19. Upon information and belief, Defendant Telog has in the past and continues 13 infringe, directly, indirectly, literally, under the doctrine of equivalents, contributoril14 and/or through the inducement of others, one or more of the claims of the '034 Patent.15 20. With actual knowledge of the '034 Patent, Telog encouraged and/or instruct16 its customers to perfonn a process with its devices including, at a minimum, the Telog LPR17 3li and the Telog HPR-3li, in a manner that it was aware directly infringed one or mo18 claims of the '034 Patent in this judicial district and elsewhere in the United States. Tel19 encouraged and/or instructed its customers to perform a process with the Telog LPR-31i a20 the Telog HPR-3li for detecting dynamic transient pressures in pipelines that includ2122

installing a dynamic pressure sensor in an operating fluid chamber, measuring flu-6-


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1 pressures in the operating fluid chamber, transmitting data sample infonnation from th2 dynamic pressure sensor to a receiver and signal processor, recording data samp3 infornlation at a predetermined interval, analyzing data samples with the signal processo4 identifying transient pressures in the operating fluid chamber, increasing data sampling rate5 and/or data recording rates during transient detection until pressures reach steady stat6. storing transient pressure data in internal memory, and analyzing and displaying collecte7 data alone or with other kinds of data from other sources, using a data manageme8 program.9 21. Telog knew or should have known that its acts would cause its customers t10 infringe the '034 Patent, in tIns judicial district and elsewhere in the United States.11 22. As a consequence of the infringement by Defendant Telog complained12 herein, Pipetech is entitled to recover past damages in the fonn of, at a mmllnum, 13 reasonable royalty.14 23. As a consequence ofDefendant Telog's infringement of one or more claims15 the '034 Patent, Pipetech has sustained lost profits through lost and/or diminished sales16 its own products. Specifically, Pipetech has sold and continues to sell the Pipetech TP17 Transient Pressure Monitoring System, which practices one or more claims of the '0318 Patent that Defendant Telog infringes. Pipetech properly marks its TP 1 Transient Pressu19 Monitoring System with the '034 Patent in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 287. Pipetech h20 sustained lost and/or diminished sales of the TPI Transient Pressure Monitoring System du21

22to Defendant's infringement. Therefore, Pipetech is entitled to recover past damages

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1 compensation for its lost profits.2 24. Defendant Telog has continued to infringe one or more claims of the '033 Patent after Pipetech made Telog aware of the '034 Patent and Telog had no reasonab4 basis for reaching a good faith conclusion that its encouragement and/or instruction to i5 customers regarding the performance of processes with its devices including, at a minimum6 the Telog LPR-3li and the Telog HPR-3li, avoided infringing claims of the '034 Paten7 Furthermore, upon information and belief, Telog continued to infringe one or more claim8: of the '034 Patent despite an objectively high likelihood that its actions constitute9 infringement of a valid patent. The objectively high likelihood that its actions constitute

10 infringement of a valid patent was either known to Telog or was so obvious that it shou11 have been known to Telog. Consequently, Telog's infringement of one or more claims12 the '034 Patent was willful and warrants an award of increased damages pursuant to 313 U.S.C. 284.14 25. Upon infonnation and belief, Telog will continue to infringe the '034 Pate15 unless enjoined by this Court.16 26. As a consequence of Telog' s infringement complained of herein, Pipetech h17 been irreparably damaged to an extent not yet determined and will continue to be irreparab18 damaged by such acts in the future unless Telog is enjoined by this Court from committin19 further acts of infringement. In the event the Court determines that it will not ent20 injunctive relief, then it should require Telog to continue to pay royalties for 21

22infringement on a going-forward basis.

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2 PRAYER FOR RELIEF3 WHEREFORE, Pipetech prays for entry of udgment and an order that:4 (1) Defendants have infringed one or more of the claims of the '553 Patent, eith5 literally andlor under the doctrine of equivalents;6

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(2) Defendants account for and pay to Pipetech all damages, assessmentinterest, and costs of Pipetech caused by Defendants' infringement of one or more claimof the '553 Patent;

(3) Pipetech be granted permanent injunctive relief pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 28enJommg Defendants, their officers, agents, servants, employees, affiliates and thopersons in active concert of participation with them from further acts of patent infringemeof the '553 Patent;

(4) In the event the Court determines that it will not enter injunctive relieDefendants continue to pay royalties to Pipetech for its infringement of the '553 Patent ongoing-forward basis;

(5) Defendant Te10g has infringed one or more of the claims of the '034 Paten17 either literally, under the doctrine of equivalents and/or through the inducement of others;18 (6) Defendant Telog account for and pay to Pipetech all damages, assessment19 interest, and costs of Pipetech caused by Defendant Telog's infringement of one or mo20 claims of the '034 Patent;21

22(7) Pipetech be granted permanent injunctive relief pursuant to 35 U.S.c. 28

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1 enjoining Defendant Te1og, its officers, agents, servants, employees, affiliates and tho

2 persons in active concert of participation with them from further acts of patent infringeme3 of the '034 Patent;4 (8) Defendant Telog account for and pay for increased damages for willf5 infringement under 35 U.S.C. 284;6 (9) Costs and attorney's fees be awarded to Pipetech, as this is an exceptional ca7 under 35 U.S.C. 285; and,8 (10) Pipetech be granted such further and additional relief as the Court may dee9 just and proper under the circumstances.

10 DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL11 Pipetech demands trial by jury on all claims and issues so triable.12

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RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED this 15 th day of October, 2013.

OF COUNSEL:Blake H. FryeJulie BurkeJennifer CalvertHILL, KERTSCHER & WHARTON,LLP3350 Riverwood Parkway, Suite 800Atlanta, Georgia 30339(770) 953-0995

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CONANT LAW FIRM, PLClsiPaul A. ConantPaul A. ConantMelissa Emmel2398 East Camelback Road, Suite 925Phoenix, Arizona 85016(602) 508-9010Attorneys fo r PlaintiffPipetech


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1CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

23 I hereby certify that on October 15, 2013, I electronically transmitted the attachdocument to the Clerk's Office using the CM/ECF System for filing and electronic service.4 By: Kelly Naughton56789

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Exhibit A


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(12) United States PatentWorthington

(54) DYNAMIC TRANSIENT PRESSUREDETECTION SYSTEM(76) Inventor: Loren Worthington, 16246 N. 18th PI.,Phoenix, AZ (US) 85022(


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U.S. Patent May 22, 2007 Sheet 1 of 3 US 7,219,553 Bl

Figure 1

11001000900800700-s. 800-I) 500

......:::l~ 4DO!0- 300200100 ..... I.0 I ... ',.100 .o

11M!

Start ofttansientdetected!iii

I ...... . ... j... .. ............ . ... ....... '.or: 11 . . . . :1 .t ',1 1 ' ' . e' .:.:.:. ... , .. . . t ..0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

Time (sec)Actual pressure wave

Recorded pressure

End oftransientI / ~ -.1 a:. ' .... ..

.......'. .. . !. ' '. ...... .... . . I ... . . 'I .'... . .... '.. .., ....

1 1.1 1.2

::::: Reconstructed pressure wave


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u.s. Patent May 22, 2007 Sheet 2 of 3 US 7,219,553 B1

Figure 2Establish PredetenninedRecording Interval andTransient Pressure Parametersj ~

Install Transient Pressure j Measure Fluid Pressure 3Detection System 1~ , lTransmit Data to Receiver 5

~ ~Recording Sample Data atPredetermined Intervals 7

J ~Identify Transient Pressures I< Analyze Data Samples 9

11J ~Increase Data Recording Rate

During Transient Detection13

~ ~Store Transient Data in Vnternal Memory 15J ,lAnalyze and Display Continue Measuring PressureCollected Data 17 :> 19


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u.s. Patent May 22, 2007 Sheet 3 of 3 US 7,219,553 Bl

Figure 331 33 35 37 39

25 27 29 27 25~ - ' ~ - ~ -

23 21 21 23


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US 7,219,553 B11

DYNAMIC TRANSIENT PRESSUREDETECTION SYSTEM2

pressure and pipelines are then designed on this assumption.For example, transient pressures in water pipelines may beassumed to be 40% above normal operating pressure.Damage from transient pressures can be benign or cata-his application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/501,846, filed Sep. 11,2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The measurement of pressure in pipelines and otheroperating fluid chambers is very important to many industrial applications, and in particular to gas, petroleum, sewageand water utilities. Irregular pressures can cause catastrophiceffects to mechanical systems and result in large losses oftime and money.

5 strophic. Less serious effects include gradual spalling of theinner surface of the pipe or damage to joint materials. Inconcrete pressure pipe materials, the stress levels may resultin cracking of mortar on the exterior surface of the pipe,leading to the eventual compromise of the protection of10 prestressing. This damage, in tum, results in the introduction

of water and air to the steel and subsequent corrosion. Thecorrosion, gradual fracture and deterioration can lead tocatastrophic rupture many years after the damaging events.When rupture does occur, there will be no record of theGenerally, pressure pipelines are desigued with enoughstructural strength to withstand both normal operating pressures and transient pressures. Pressure transients occurwhenever there is a change in the flow rate in a pipeline andcan be significantly higher and/or lower than normal operating pressures. Causes of transient pressures include opening or closing a valve, starting or stopping a pump, oroperation of an air relief valve.

15 source of the problem. Alternatively, the most severe transient events may cause movement of a pipe or an immediatecatastrophic rupture. Damage is most severe in thin-walledpipes, lined pipes and concrete cylinder pipes.Most of the country's infrastnlcture is aging and there are20 limited funds for replacement. Unpredictable pressure transients can have a severe effect on these systems. Theresultant distress from transient pressures accumulates overtime, causing a rupture long after the damaging transientnder normal circumstances, transient pressures are predictable and readily accommodated by pipeline design. Forexample, main line butterfly valves are desigued to close 25over a period of minutes to minimize transient pressures.Pmnp motors are desigued to start against a closed valve andthe valve gradually opens to minimize transient pressures.The presence of air pockets has a number of potentiallyadverse effects on the operation of a pipeline, including the 30aggravation of transient pressures. Therefore, air valves areincluded in pipeline design to discharge accumulated airpockets to minimize this problem.Other instances of transient pressures are more difficult topredict accurately and, thus, they are not included in pipeline 35design. For example, a sudden power outage in a pumpedpipeline system causes an abrupt cessation of flow in thepipeline and a large transient pressure. This is a predictabletransient, although it is very difficult to analyze and designa system to deal with this type of transient. In a worse case 40scenario, a power loss causes cavitation in the water colunmand an extremely high pressure over a short duration. Thepresence of air pockets in the pipeline aggravates thisproblem by increasing the chances of cavitation, watercolunm separation and damaging pressures. Water column 45separation results with the appearance of negative pressuresin certain reaches of a water main. Pressures drop to watervapor pressure, causing vapor pockets. When the inertia ofthe water colunlll is overcome, the direction of flowreverses, causing the vapor pockets to collapse and the 50separated colunms to rejoin. Extremely high, destructivepressures result.Another example of problematic transients is the rupture

of a pipeline causing flow rates far in excess of designvelocities. Attempts to close butterfly or similar valves can 55result in catastrophic structural failure of the valve. Pressures of this magnitude are not anticipated by pipelinedesign.Hydraulic transient analysis procedures do exist, however, transient pressure prediction is a complex procedure 60requiring digital modeling of specific pipeline configurations, operating procedures and expected flow considerations. Considerable judgment and experience is needed tomodel a pipeline operation and accurately anticipate thoseconditions that will result in the highest transient pressures. 65Frequently, pipeline desigu simply predicts that transientpressures will be a fixed percentage above nonna! operating

occurs.Current systems for detection of transient pressures arenot adequate to measure and record severe transient pressures. Current analog pressure measurement systems continuously record pressure at a constant rate. This rate isestablished to present the data in the timeframe and formatrequired by the user, but the fixed rate does not have theflexibility to present detailed data concerning sharp transientpressures when these transient pressures are detected. Current digital pressure measurement systems measure andrecord pressure data at a predetennined, fixed interval. Theinterval may be set permanently into the system, or it maybe user adjustable. For instance, the interval may be once perday, once per hour, or even once per minute in the mostrigorous pressure measurement systems. However, some ofthe most severe transients will have a duration of less thanone second, and will not be accurately measured by setinterval data recording systems. Existing systems cannot, ina practical way, measure and record the most severe, unpredictable transients.Needs exist for improved and practical methods fordetecting and accurately recording transient pressures inpipelines and other operating fluid chambers.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a dynamic transient pressuredetection system for detecting variations of pressure insideoperating fluid chambers. Pressure is continuously measuredand recorded with a high degree of accuracy. Transients aredetected and data samples are stored and processed to locatethe source of the transients and to provide information forpreventing transients during future operations.The dynamic transient pressure detection system of thepresent invention includes a dynamic pressure sensorinstalled in an operating fluid chmllber. The operating fluidchamber can be a pipeline or any other equipment withenclosed fluids. The dynamic pressure sensor continuouslymeasures the pressure and time of sampling without operatorinterface. A transmission system transfers a signal from tlledynamic pressure sensor to a receiver. The sigual indicatespressure within the operating fluid chamber. For each signal,a clock or timer records chronological time of each measurement signal detection. The clock or timer may be a


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US 7,219,553 B13

Global Positioning System receiver for obtaining and sending geographic location of the instrument and time ofdetection to a signal processor. Time is measured to therequired accuracy, and may be as high as approximatelymicrosecond accuracy. A signal processor receives signals,converts signals if needed and records data. A data management program then analyzes the collected data and displaysresults.

4identification system, unknown or illegal points of diversionof fluid from the pipeline or chamber may be identified.Data sampling rates can vary widely depending on the useand are set by an operator using the principles of physics anddigital data processing; however, multiple samples per second are nonnally taken by the system. The High SampleRate data may be, but is not limited to, thousands of samplesper second. Under steady pressure conditions, most of thesedata samples are analyzed, erased and not permanentlyDuring operation of the dynamic transient pressure detection system, the signal processor records single data samplesat a predetennined periodic interval. The signal processorrecords any variation in pressure above a set threshold levelwithin internal memory until pressure measurements againreturns to a steady state.

10 recorded. lithe user desires, data samples in steady pressureconditions may be recorded at rates including, but notlimited to, once per day.Effectiveness of the present invention is improved withthe installation of more than one dynamic pressure sensors

The present invention is also a method for detectingdynamic transient pressures. The first step in the process isto install a dynamic pressure sensor in an operating fluidchamber. The sensor then measures fluid pressures in theoperating fluid chamber and transmits data sample information to a receiver. Data sample information is taken, thoughnot necessarily permanently recorded, at a predeterminedinterval that is sufficient to adequately define the most severetransient pressures. This sample rate will be referred to as theHigh Sample Rate. Once the data sample information is at

15 in an operating fluid chamber. The use of multiple dynamicpressure sensors allows for the identification of he source ofa pressure transient using two or more dynamic pressuresensors. Data may be analyzed from one or multiple testsites simultaneously. Each dynamic pressure sensor has the20 ability to transmit data to a central signal processor. Background noise levels are determined from sensor data andbackground infomlation may be removed from the pressuredata in a data management step or any other stage ofthe datacollection and analysis.

The source of ransient pressures may be detennined fromthe time of detection and other data characteristics. Thedynanuc transient pressure detection system differs fromexisting systems in its ability to identify and accuratelyrecord transient pressures based on user-defined parameters.

the receiver, a signal processor analyzes the information and 25identifies transient pressures in the operating fluid chamber.When a transient pressure is detected, data sampling ratesandlor data recording rates are increased up to the HighSample Rate until pressures reach steady state. Transientpressure data is stored in intemal memory. The collecteddata is analyzed with a data management program, and theresults are displayed to the user.30 During transient pressure detection, data sampling ratesremain constant, however, all of the data samples arerecorded, which has the effect of increasing the data recording frequency. Measurements of pressure, taken at up tothousands of times per second or more, are permanentlyn order to accurately identify transient pressures, eitherthe user or the system must define transient pressure parameters. The definition of transient pressure paranleters mayinclude the definition of an absolute threshold of pressurechange for the operating fluid chamber. The definition of

transient pressure parameters may include a statistical departure from the steady state pressure. The background, steady 40state pressure data is generally stored periodically at asecond, lower sampling rate. The operator can adjust thedata sample recording frequencies as needed for a particularapplication. When the sensors record a pressure measurement that, when compared to the steady state pressure, is 45outside the set pressure threshold, the pressure data istemporarily stored in a buffer at the High Sample Rate. Thedata taken at the High Sample Rate are recorded in intemalmemory during a transient condition. High frequency datarecording continues until the pressure in the operating fluid 50chamber retums to a steady state value or the user specifies

35 recorded to depict the pressure throughout the transientcondition.

a return to normal recording rates. When a measurement isoutside the pressure threshold, the data is permanentlystored in the buffer and the second sampling or recordingrate is increased to the High Sample Rate. The pressure data 55is pennanently stored in the buffer at the High Sample Rate.Times of detection andlorposition of he sensor are recordedand sent with the temporarily and permanently stored andrecorded data. A time andlor position receiver may beinstalled with the sensor for receiving and sending time and 60position signals with the pressure signals. Potential information may be transmitted from the sensor.

In a preferred embodiment, when a threshold of pressurerepresenting hazards to persons or structures is reached, analann is transmitted to alert a user when this threshold is 65reached or exceeded. Additionally, the system may be usedto locate and identify the source of the transient. Using tlus

The remote signal processor located at each test sitereceives data samples from one or more sensors and performs the function of identifying the presence of transientpressure conditions. Data received from the sensor is temporarily stored, in a buffer or otherwise, for a predeterminedperiod. Background noise levels are established and thestatistical characteristics of the samples are continuouslyupdated. The signal processor analyzes the data and displaysoutput for the operator. The signal processor includes a datamanagement program for analyzing, storing and displayingthe data collected from one or more sensors. Using morethan one sensor allows the operator to detect the source ofa transient pressure in two or three-dimensions.

Results of testing by the invention may be transmitted anddisplayed to the user in tabular form, grapluc fonn, electronic fonn, internet web site displays, or other format topermit review and analysis by the user.These and further and other objects and features of theinvention are apparent in the disclosure, which includes theabove and ongoing written specification, with the claims andthe drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSFIG. 1 is a graph of pressure versus time showing thedynanuc transient pressure detection method.FIG. 2 is a flowchart of the stages of transient pressuredetection.FIG. 3 is a diagram of a dynamic transient pressuredetection system.


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US 7,219,553 B15

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF TIIEPREFERRED EMBODIMENTSThe present invention is a dynamic transient pressuredetection system for detecting and recording variations inpressure inside operating fluid chambers. One or moredynamic pressure sensors are installed inside an operatingfluid chamber. Pressure is continuously measured andrecorded with a high degree of accuracy. Transients aredetected and data samples are stored and processed to locate 10the source of the transients and to provide information forpreventing transients during future operations. A clock ortimer records the chronological time of detection for eachsanlple. The clock or timer may be connected to a GlobalPositioning System or other accurate chronometers to assist 15in determining the source of transient pressures.The dynamic transient pressure detection system of thepresent invention includes a dynamic pressure sensorinstalled in an operating fluid chamber. The operating fluidchamber can be a pipeline or any other equipment with 20enclosed fluids. The dynamic pressure sensor continuouslyrecords the background pressure and time of sampling. Datasampling rates can vary widely depending on the use and areset by an operator. Background data samples are recorded atrates from about once per second to about once per day, 25depending on the user's needs. Data are recorded in atemporary buffer for a predetennined amount of time or inpermanent internal memory.The dynamic transient pressure detection system identifies transient pressures based on user-defined parameters. 30During transient pressure detection, data sampling ratesremain constant, however, the data are all recorded inpermanent storage. Measurements are taken and recorded atup to thousands of times per second or more. TIle operatorcan also set higher frequencies if needed for a particular 35application. The data collected during these high samplingrates are analyzed in order to find rapid pressure changes thatindicate transient pressures. When a transient pressure isdetected, the higher data sampling rate information isrecorded in pennanent, internal memory. High frequency 40data detection and recordation continues until the pressure inthe operating fluid chamber returns to a steady state value oras long as the operator desires.

6all data in the buffer to be recorded in internal memory. Therecordation of data into the internal memory continues untilpressure has retlmled to a steady state or as long as theoperator wishes. At that time, normal data recordationreSlUnes.The signal processor analyzes the data and displays outputfor the operator. The signal processor includes a data management program for processing, analyzing and displayingthe data, collected from one or more sensors. Using morethan one sensor allows the signal processor to detect thesource of a transient pressure in two or three-dimensions.The determination of the point of origin of a transient inone-dimension is based on the following formula:

where:

XI =V(TI- 72) +L2

Xl is the distance from test site 1V is the velocity of the energy wave in the fluid mediumT1 is the time of detection at test site 1T2 is the time of detection at test site 2L is the distance between the sensorsTIus formula ignores the velocity of the fluid. I f desired,the formula can be modified to take into account the fluidvelocity.FIG. 1 shows a graph of pressure versus time for ahypothetical measurement scenario. The pressure is atsteady state from time 0 sec to 0.3 sec. Sampling occursevery 0.01 seconds, however, it is recorded every 0.1seconds. In other words, 9 out of every 10 data samples arenot permanently recorded. The begimung of a transient isdetected at about 0.5 seconds and all samples are permanently recorded until the end of the transient at about 1.0second. At this time, tlle pressure has regained steady stateand the sample recording rate is lowered to levels equal to

tllOse before the transient detection.FIG. 2 is a flowchart oftlle present method for detectingand analyzing transient pressures. Initially, one or moredynanuc pressure sensors are installed1 in an operating fluidchamber or pipeline. These sensors continuously measure 3fluid pressures and transmit 5 data sample information to areceiver. Recording 7 is performed at a predeterminedinterval. Samples are then analyzed 9 to determine if tran-sient pressures exist. If a transient pressure is detected 11,the rate of data sampling and/or data recording rates areincreased 13. This continues until pressures reach a steadystate. Transient pressure data is stored in internal memory15. TIus data is then analyzed and displayed 17 using a datamanagement program. Once normal pressures are resumed,or if no transient pressures are detected, the dynamic transient pressure detection system of the present invention

Multiple dynamic pressure sensors can be installed on anoperating fluid chamber. With mUltiple sensors, it is possible 45to accurately identifY the source of a transient pressure. Twosensors can locate the source of a transient pressure inone-dimension. Combining three or more sensors allows theoperator to pinpoint the source of a transient in two orthree-dimensions. Each dynamic pressure sensor has the 50ability to transmit data to a central signal processor foranalysis. Each sensor transmits a calibrated signal indicatingpressure within an operating fluid chamber. Individual sensors are synchronized using a precision timer or othersynchronization mechanism. 55 continues measuring pressure at a predetenllined rate.Additionally, each dynamic pressure sensor has a clock ortimer to record the chronological time of detection for eachsample. The clock or timer may be a Global PositioningSystem receiver that obtains the geographic location of theinstrument and time of detection. Time is measured to 60millisecond accuracy, or greater.The central signal processor receives data samples fromone or more sensors. Data received from the sensor istemporarily stored in a buffer for a predetermined period.Background noise levels are established and the statistical 65characteristics of he samples are continuously updated. Anyvariation in pressure above a user-set threshold level causes

FIG. 3 shows a dual sensor configuration for a dynamictransient pressure detection system. The system starts withone or more segments of pipeline 21 with pressure sensors23 installed. Each sensor 23 has a means of transmittinginformation 25. The transmission means 25 can be wire,fiber, wireless, or other method; and the data format can bedigital, analog, or other. Data is transmitted in real time, oras information batches, depending on the needs of the user.The transmission 27 from the sensors 23 to a correspondingreceiver 29 on a receiving device 31 transfers data about theconditions in the fluid chamber 21. The receiving device 31includes a clock or tinIer 33 for recording chronological time


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US 7,219,553 B17

detection. The receiving device 31 is then connected 35 to asignal processor 37 that receives the signals and recordeddata. A data management system 39 within the signalprocessor 37 analyzes and displays the collected data.

810. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the operating fluid chamber is a pipeline and wherein the transmissionsystem is wireless.11. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the dynamicpressure sensor contains a predetermined threshold of pres

sure representing hazards to persons or structures.While the invention has been described with reference tospecific embodiments, modifications and variations of theinvention may be constrncted without departing from thescope of the invention, which is defined in the followingclaims.The invention claimed is:

12. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the transmission receiver, clock or timer and signal processor are an10 integrated unit.

1. A dynamic transient pressure detection system comprising:a dynamic transient pressure sensor installed in an operating fluid chamber,a transmission system for transferring a signal indicating 15pressure within the operating fluid chamber to areceiver,a clock or timer for recording chronological time detection,a signal processor for receiving signals and recording 20data, anda data management program for analyzing and displayingcollected data, wherein the signal processor recordsdata samples showing dynamic transient pressuresabove a threshold level to internal memory until pres- 25sure returus to a steady state or until the user specifies.2. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the dynamictransient pressure sensor operates continuously withoutoperator interface.3. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the dynamic 30transient pressure sensor records an analog signal.

13. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the clock ortimer is a Global Positioning System receiver for obtainingand sending geographic location of the instrument and timeof detection to a signal processor.

14. The detection system of claim 1, wherein at steadystate the signal processor records single data samples in atemporary buffer, wherein at steady state the signal processor discards unnecessary data and wherein at steady state thesignal processor records single data samples, or a periodicaverage of data samples, in a permanent buffer at a predetermined periodic interval and wherein the predeterminedperiod interval is user or system defined.15. The transient pressure detection system of claim 1fbrther comprising means to enter and store transient pressure parameters and transient pressure data.

16. The transient pressure detection system of claim 15further comprising means to compare sample data to transient pressure parameters to identifY transient pressures.17. The transient pressure detection system of claim 16wherein the system increases the data sampling rates and thedata recording rates during transient detection.. The detection system of claim 3, wherein the signalprocessor converts the analog signal to digital.

5. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the dynamictransient pressure sensor records a digital signal.6. The detection system of claim 1, further comprisingadditional dynamic transient pressure sensors installed in theoperating fluid chamber.

18. The transient pressure detection system of claim 17further comprising means to analyze and display collected35 data, and returu data sampling rates and data recording ratesto predetennined rates when sample data returus to nontransient pressure parameters.

7. The detection system of claim 6, wherein a source of adynamic transient pressure is detenllined from the additional 40dynamic pressure sensors.8. The detection system of claim 1, wherein data from thedynamic transient pressure sensor identifies the source of atransient pressure.9. The detection system of claim 8, wherein the source of 45a dynamic transient pressure is identified as a point ofdiversion of fluid from the operating fluid chamber, andwherein unknown or illegal diversions are identified.

19. The detection systemof claim 11, wherein an alanll istransmitted to a user when the threshold pressure is reachedor exceeded.20. The detection system of c1aiml, wherein backgroundnoise is removed from the signals at the signal processor.21. The detection system of claim 1, wherein backgroundnoise levels are determined from dynanlic pressure sensordata.

* * * * *


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ExhibitB


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(12) United States PatentWorthington(54) DYNAMIC TRANSIENT PRESSUREDETECTION SYSTEM(76) Inventor: Loren Worthington, 16246 N. 18th PI.,Phoenix, AZ (US) 85022(" ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the te= of thispatent is extended or adjusted under 35U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days.(21) Appl. No.: 11/641,686(22) Filed: Dec. 20, 2006

Related U.S. Application Data(62) Division of application No. 101927,120, filed on Aug.27, 2004, now Pat. No. 7,219,553.(60) Provisional application No. 60/501,846, filed on Sep.11,2003.(51) Int. CI.GOIL 9/00 (2006.01)(52) U.S. CI. ........................................................ 73/753(58) Field of Classification Search ................... 73/753See application file for complete search history.(56) References Cited

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS4,772,388 A * 9/1988 Allington ......... ........ 210/198.2

11I111 1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111US007357034Bl

(10) Patent No.: US 7,357,034 BlApr. 15, 200845) Date of Patent:5,154,152 A .. 10/1992 Yamane et al .............. 123/4925,337,750 A '" 8/1994 Walloch ..................... 600/4936,567,709 B l" 5/2003 Maim et aI ................... 700/216,865,472 B2 " 3/2005 Nakamura .................. 70111087,219,553 B l" 5/2007 Worthington ................ 73/753

* cited by examinerPrimary Examiner-Max Noori(74) Attomey, Agent, or Firm-James Creighton Wray;Clifford D. Hyra(57) ABSTRACTThe present invention is a dynamic transient pressure detec-tion system for detecting and recording variations in pres-sure inside operating fluid chambers. One or more dynamicpressure sensors are installed inside an operating fluidchamber. Pressure is continuously measured and recordedwith a high degree of accuracy. Transients are detected anddata samples are stored and processed to locate the source ofthe transients and to provide info=ation for preventingtransients during future operations. A clock or timer recordsthe chronological time of detection for each sample. Theclock or timer may be connected to a Global PositioningSystem to assist in dete=ining the source of transientpressures.

18 Claims, 3 Drawing Sheets

1100 1-'-T-r-r-lTIllmmmrrrrnrmrnrmn1TIlTmrrrr-'-Tl1000

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0.1

300200100 . . . . . . . . . . . . .

o ~ { : ~ f ~ : ~..100 ..... '.

Start ortransient

....... ~ ~~ ~ t ~ ~ i t ~ ~ : : JEntlortrnoslenl1/6teG1ed

o 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.1 1.2Time (sec)

Actual pnlssu,e wave Recorded prenure



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u.s. Patent Apr. 15, 2008 Sheet 1 of 3 US 7,357,034 Bl

Figure 1

1 1 o o ~ - - ~ - - ~ - - - r - - - r - - - r n n n r r m m m m m m m m m m m m n n m r r - - - r - - - ~1000900

800700

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: + : : - " : : o : : r : : : " ' : : : ~ : : r : : :...: : o : r : : : + : : o : : r : : : ~ : : , . . : ' ~ ~ " \ IO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \. . . . [. -:r .... I r .:.:.:.: :.:.:.:- .:.:.:.. .:.:. :.:.:.:-100 o 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9Time (sec)

Actual pnlssure wave Recorded pressure

End ortransientIrea. .1/ e. ' r ' ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ . ~ ! I .. . : ~ : ...:.:.:.: :.:-. . ... .. '. I . e". . . ...... , . . ..

1.1 1.2



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u.s. Patent Apr. 15, 2008 Sheet 2 of 3 US 7,357,034 Bl

Figure 2Establish PredeterminedRecording Interval andTransient Pressure Parameters

. J ~Install Transient Pressure Measure Fluid Pressure 3 Ietection System 1

.JtTransmit Data to Receiver 5

.JtRecording Sample Data atPredetermined Intervals 7

J tIdentify Transient Pressures I Analyze Data Samples 9 I1 I

j 1-Increase Data Recording RateDuring Transient Detection13

~ ~Store Transient Data in Vnternal Memory 15J . ~

Analyze and Display Continue Measuring PressureCollected Data 17 19


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u.s. Patent Apr. 15, 2008 Sheet 3 of 3 US 7,357,034 BI

Figure 331 33 35 37 39

25 27 27 25~ _ , ' - - - - - T - - - - - I ~ _

23 21 21 23


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US 7,357,034 Bl1

DYNAMIC TRANSIENT PRESSUREDETECTION SYSTEM

2that will result in the highest transient pressures. Frequently,pipeline design simply predicts iliat transient pressures willbe a fixed percentage above normal operating pressure andpipelines are then designed on this assumption. For example,bis application is a division of application Ser. No.10/927,120 filed Aug. 27, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,219,

553.5 transient pressures in water pipelines may be assumed to be

40% above normal operating pressure.1bis application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/501,846, filed Sep. 11,2003. Damage from transient pressures can be benign or catastrophic. Less serious effects include gradual spalling of theimler surface of the pipe or damage to joint materials. InBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONThe measurement of pressure in pipelines and otheroperating fluid chambers is very important to many industrial applications, and in particular to gas, petroleum, sewageand water utilities. Irregular pressures can cause catastrophiceffects to mechanical systems and result in large losses oftime and money.

10 concrete pressure pipe materials, the stress levels may resultin cracking of mortar on ilie exterior surface of ilie pipe,leading to the eventual compromise of the protection ofprestressing. This damage, in tum, results in the introductionof water and air to ilie steel and subsequent corrosion. The

Generally, pressure pipelines are designed with enoughstructural strength to withstand both no=al operating pressures and transient pressures. Pressure transients occurwhenever there is a change in the flow rate in a pipeline andcan be significantly higher andlor lower than no=al operating pressures. Causes of transient pressures include opening or closing a valve, starting or stopping a pump, oroperation of an air relief valve.

15 corrosion, gradual fracture and deterioration can lead tocatastrophic rupture many years after the damaging events.When rupture does occur, there will be no record of thesource of the problem. Alternatively, the most severe transient events may cause movement of a pipe or an il1ll1lediate20 catastrophic rupture. Damage is most severe in thin-walledpipes, lined pipes and concrete cylinder pipes.

Most of the cOlmtry's infrastructure is aging and there arelimited funds for replacement. Unpredictable pressure transients can have a severe effect on these systems. The25 resultant distress from transient pressures accumulates overtime, causing a rupture long after the damaging transientnder normal circumstances, transient pressures are predictable and readily acco=odated by pipeline design. Forexample, main line butterfly valves are designed to closeover a period of minutes to minimize transient pressures.Pump motors are designed to start against a closed valve and 30the valve gradually opens to minimize transient pressures.TIle presence of air pockets has a number of potentiallyadverse effects on the operation of a pipeline, including theaggravation of transient pressures. Therefore, air valves areincluded in pipeline design to discharge accumulated air 35pockets to minimize this problem.Oilier instances of transient pressures are more difficult topredict accurately and, thus, they are not included in pipelinedesign, for example, a sudden power outage in a pumpedpipeline system causes an abrupt cessation of flow in the 40pipeline and a large transient pressure. This is a predictabletransient, although it is very difficult to analyze and designa system to deal wiili tills type of transient. In a worse casescenario, a power loss causes cavitation in the water colunmand an extremely high pressure over a short duration. The 45presence of air pockets in the pipeline aggravates thisproblem by increasing the chances of cavitation, watercolunm separation and damaging pressures. Water colunmseparation results wiili the appearance of negative pressures

occurs.Current systems for detection of transient pressures arenot adequate to measure and record severe transient pressures. Current analog pressure measurement systems continuously record pressure at a constant rate. This rate isestablished to present the data in the timeframe and fo=atrequired by ilie user, but ilie fixed rate does not have theflexibility to present detailed data concerning sharp transientpressures when these transient pressures are detected. Current digital pressure measurement systems measure andrecord pressure data at a predetermined, fixed interval. Theinterval may be set pe=anently into the system, or it maybe user adjustable. For instance, the interval may be once perday, once per hour, or even once per minute in the mostrigorous pressure measurement systems. However, some ofilie most severe transients will have a duration of less ilianone second, and will not be accurately measured by setinterval data recording systems. Existing systems camlOt, ina practical way, measure and record the most severe, lmpredictable transients.Needs exist for improved and practical methods fordetecting and accurately recording transient pressures inpipelines and oilier operating fluid chambers.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a dynamic transient pressuredetection system for detecting variations of pressure inside

in certain reaches of a water main Pressures drop to water 50vapor pressure, causing vapor pockets. When the inertia ofthe water colunm is overcome, the direction of flowreverses, causing tlle vapor pockets to collapse and theseparated columns to rejoin. Extremely high, destructivepressures result. 55 operating fluid chambers. Pressure is continuously measuredand recorded with a high degree of accuracy. Transients aredetected and data samples are stored and processed to locatethe source of the transients and to provide information forAnother example of problematic transients is the rupture

of a pipeline causing flow rates far in excess of designvelocities. Attempts to close butterfly or similar valves canresult in catastrophic structural failure of the valve. Pressures of this magnitude are not anticipated by pipeline 60design.Hydraulic transient analysis procedure do exist, however,transient pressure prediction is a complex procedure requiring digital modeling of specific pipeline configurations,operating procedures and expected flow considerations. 65Considerable judgment and experience is needed to model apipeline operation and accurately anticipate those conditions

preventing transients during future operations.The dynamic transient pressure detection system of thepresent invention includes a dynamic pressure sensorinstalled in an operating fluid chamber. The operating fluidchamber can be a pipeline or any other equipment withenclosed fluids. The dynamic pressure sensor continuouslymeasures the pressure and time of sampling without operatorinterface. A transmission system transfers a signal from thedynamic pressure sensor to a receiver. The signal indicates


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pressure within the operating fluid chamber. For each signal,a clock or timer records chronological time of each measurement signal detection. The clock or timer may be aGlobal Positioning System receiver for obtaining and sending geographic location of the instmment and time ofdetection to a signal processor. Time is measured to therequired accuracy, and may be as high as approximatelymicrosecond accuracy. A signal processor receives signals,converts signals if needed and records data. A data management program then analyzes the collected data and displays 10results.During operation of the dynamic transient pressure detection system, the signal processor records single data samplesat a predetermined periodic interval. The signal processorrecords any variation in pressure above a set threshold level 15within internal memory until pressure measurements againreturns to a steady state.The present invention is also a method for detectingdynamic transient pressures. The first step in the process is

4reached or exceeded. Additionally, tile system may be usedto locate and identifY the source of the transient. Using thisidentification system, unknown or illegal points of diversionof fluid from the pipeline or chamber may be identified.Data sampling rates can vary widely depending on the useand are set by an operator using the principles of physics anddigital data processing; however, multiple samples per second are normally taken by the system. The High SampleRate data may be, but is not limited to, thousands of samplesper second. Under steady pressure conditions, most of thesedata samples are analyzed, erased and not permanentlyrecorded. I f he user desires, data samples in steady pressureconditions may be recorded at rates including, but notlimited to, once per day.Effectiveness of the present invention is improved withthe installation of more than one dynamic pressure sensorsin an operating fluid chamber. The use of multiple dynamicpressure sensors allows for the identification ofthe source ofa pressure transient using two or more dynamic pressuresensors. Data may be analyzed from one or multiple testsites simultaneously. Each dynamic pressure sensor has theability to transmit data to a central signal processor. Background noise levels are detennined from sensor data andbackground infonnation may be removed from the pressuredata in a data management step or any other stage of he datacollection and analysis.The source of ransient pressures may be determined fromthe time of detection and other data characteristics. Thedynamic transient pressure detection system differs fromexisting systems in its ability to identify and accuratelyrecord transient pressures based on user-defined parameters.During transient pressure detection, data sampling ratesremain constant, however, all of the data samples arerecorded, which has the effect of increasing tile data record-

to install a dynamic pressure sensor in an operating fluid 20chamber. The sensor then measures fluid pressures in theoperating fluid chamber and transmits data sample information to a receiver. Data sample information is taken, thoughnot necessarily pennanently recorded, at a predeterminedinterval that is sufficient to adequately define the most severe 25transient pressures. This sample rate will be referred to as theHigh Sample Rate. Once the data sample information is atthe receiver, a signal processor analyzes the information andidentifies transient pressures in the operating fluid chamber.When a transient pressure is detected, data sampling rates 30and/or data recording rates are increased up to the HighSample Rate until pressures reach steady state. Transientpressure data is stored in intemal memory. The collecteddata is analyzed with a data management program, and theresults are displayed to the user.

In order to accurately identifY transient pressures, eitherthe user or the system must define transient pressure parameters. The definition of transient pressure parameters mayinclude the definition of an absolute threshold of pressurechange for the operating fluid chamber. The definition of 40transient pressure parameters may include a statistical departure from the steady state pressure. The background, steadystate pressure data is generally stored periodically at asecond, lower sampling rate. The operator can adjust thedata sample recording frequencies as needed for a particular 45application. When the sensors record a pressure measurement that, when compared to the steady state pressure, isoutside the set pressure threshold, the pressure data istemporarily stored in a buffer at the High Sample Rate. Thedata taken at the High Sample Rate are recorded in internal 50memory during a transient condition. High frequency datarecording continues until the pressure in the operating fluidchamber retums to a steady state value or the user specifies

35 ing frequency. Measurements of pressure, taken at up tothousands of times per second or more, are permanentlyrecorded to depict the pressure throughout the transientcondition.

a return to normal recording rates. When a measurement isoutside the pressure threshold, the data is pennanentlystored in the buffer and the second sampling or recordingrate is increased to the High Sample Rate. The pressure datais pennanently stored in the buffer at the High Sample Rate.Times of detection and/or position of he sensor are recordedand sent with the temporarily and pernlanently stored andrecorded data. A time and/or position receiver may beinstalled with the sensor for receiving and sending time andposition signals with tile pressure signals. Potential information may be transmitted from the sensor.

The remote signal processor located at each test sitereceives data samples from one or more sensors and perfonns the function of identifYing the presence of transientpressure conditions. Data received from the sensor is tem-porarily stored, in a buffer or otherwise, for a predeterminedperiod. Background noise levels are established and thestatistical characteristics of the samples are continuouslyupdated. The signal processor analyzes the data and displaysoutput for the operator. The signal processor includes a datamanagement program for analyzing, storing and displayingthe data collected from one or more sensors. Using morethan one sensor allows the operator to detect the source ofa transient pressure in two or three-dimensions.Results of esting by the invention may be transmitted anddisplayed to the user in tabular form, graphic fonn, electronic fonn, intemet web site displays, or other fonnat to55 permit review and analysis by the user.

These and further and other objects and features of theinvention are apparent in the disclosure, which includes theabove and ongoing written specification, with the claims and60 the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In a preferred embodiment, when a threshold of pressure 65representing hazards to persons or stmctures is reached, analann is transmitted to alert a user when this threshold is

FIG. 1 is a graph of pressure versus time showing thedynamic transient pressure detection method.FIG. 2 is a flowchart of the stages of transient pressuredetection.


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FIG. 3 is a diagram of a dynamic transient pressuredetection system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THEPREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is a dynamic transient pressuredetection system for detecting and recording variations inpressure inside operating fluid chambers. One or moredynamic pressure sensors are installed inside an operating 10fluid chamber. Pressure is continuously measured andrecorded with a high degree of accuracy. Transients aredetected and data samples are stored and processed to locatethe source of the transients and to provide infonnation forpreventing transients during future operations. A clock or 15timer records the chronological time of detection for eachsample. The clock or timer may be connected to a GlobalPositioning System or other accurate chronometers to assistin determining the source of transient pressures.The dynamic transient pressure detection system of the 20present invention includes a dynamic pressure sensorinstalled in an operating fluid chamber. The operating fluidchamber can be a pipeline or any other equipment withenclosed fluids. The dynamic pressure sensor continuouslyrecords the background pressure and time of sampling. Data 25sampling rates can vary widely depending on the use and areset by an operator. Background data samples are recorded atrates from about once per second to about once per day,depending on the user's needs. Data are recorded in atemporary buffer for a predetennined amount of time or in 30permanent internal memory.The dynamic transient pressure detection system identifies transient pressures based on user-defined parameters.During transient pressure detection, data sampling ratesremain constant, however, the data are all recorded in 35permanent storage. Measurements are taken and recorded atup to thousands of times per second or more. The operatorcan also set higher frequencies if needed for a particularapplication. The data collected during these high sanlplingrates are analyzed in order to find rapid pressure changes that 40indicate transient pressures. When a transient pressure isdetected, the higher data sampling rate information isrecorded in pe=anent, internal memory. High frequencydata detection and recordation continues until the pressure inthe operating fluid chamber returns to a steady state value or 45as long as the operator desires.Multiple dynamic pressure sensors can be installed on anoperating fluid chamber. With multiple sensors, it is possibleto accurately identifY the source of a transient pressure. Twosensors can locate the source of a transient pressure in 50one-dimension. Combining three or more sensors allows theoperator to pinpoint the source of a transient in two orthree-dimensions. Each dynamic pressure sensor has theability to transmit data to a central signal processor foranalysis. Each sensor transmits a calibrated signal indicating 55pressure within an operating fluid chamber. Individual sensors are synchronized using a precision timer or othersynchronization mechanism.Additionally, each dynamic pressure sensor has a clock ortimer to record the chronological time of detection for each 60sample. The clock or timer may be a Global PositioningSystem receiver that obtains the geographic location of theinstrument and time of detection. Time is measured tomillisecond accuracy, or greater.

6Background noise levels are established and the statisticalcharacteristics of the samples are continuously updated. Anyvariation in pressure above a user-set threshold level causesall data in the buffer to be recorded in internal memory. Therecordation of data into the internal memory continues untilpressure has returned to a steady state or as long as theoperator wishes. At that time, normal data recordationresumes.The signal processor analyzes the data and displays outputfor the operator. The signal processor includes a data management program for processing, analyzing and displayingthe data collected from one or more sensors. Using morethan one sensor allows the signal processor to detect thesource of a transient pressure in two or three-dimensions.The detennination of the point of origin of a transient inone-dimension is based on the following fo=ula:

V(TI-T2)+LXl = 2

where:Xl is the distance from test site 1V is the velocity of the energy wave in the fluid mediumTl is the time of detection at test site 1T2 is the time of detection at test site 2L is the distance between the sensorsThis formula ignores the velocity of the fluid. I f desired,the formula can be modified to take into account the fluidvelocity.FIG. 1 shows a graph of pressure versus time for ahypothetical measurement scenario. The pressure is atsteady state from time 0 sec to 0.3 sec. Sampling occursevery 0.01 seconds, however, it is recorded every 0.1seconds. In other words, 9 out of every 10 data samples arenot permanently recorded. The beginning of a transient isdetected at about 0.5 seconds and all samples are pernlanently recorded until the end of the transient at about 1.0second. At this time, the pressure has regained steady stateand the sample recording rate is lowered to levels equal tothose before the transient detection.FIG. 2 is a flowchart oft11e present method for detectingand analyzing transient pressures. Initially, one or moredynamic pressure sensors are installed 1 in an operating fluidchamber or pipeline. These sensors continuously measure 3fluid pressures and transmit 5 data sample info=ation to areceiver. Recording 7 is perfo=ed at a predeterminedinterval. Samples are tllen analyzed 9 to determine if transient pressures exist. If a transient pressure is detected 11,tlle rate of data sampling andlor data recording rates areincreased 13. This continues until pressures reach a steadystate. Transient pressure data is stored in internal memory15. This data is then analyzed and displayed 17 using a datamanagement program. Once normal pressures are resmned,

or if no transient pressures are detected, tile dynamic tran-sient pressure detection system of the present inventioncontinues measuring pressure at a predetennined rate.FIG. 3 shows a dual sensor configuration for a dynamictransient pressure detection system. The system starts withone or more segments of pipeline 21 with pressure sensors23 installed. Each sensor 23 has a means of transmittinginformation 25. The transmission means 25 can be wire,fiber, wireless, or other method; and tlle data format can beThe central signal processor receives data samples fromone or more sensors. Data received from the sensor istemporarily stored in a buffer for a predeternlined period.

65 digital, analog, or other. Data is transmitted in real time, oras information batches, depending on the needs of the user.The transmission 27 from the sensors 23 to a corresponding


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receiver 29 on a receiving device 31 transfers data about theconditions in the fluid chamber 21. The receiving device 31includes a clock or timer 33 for recording chronological timedetection. The receiving device 31 is then connected 35 to asignal processor 37 that receives the signals and recordeddata. A data management system 39 within the signalprocessor 37 analyzes and displays the collected data.

8upon receiving the pressure data at values outside of thethreshold:

permanently recording the pressure data in the buffer,increasing the second rate to match the first rate,permanently storing the pressure data at the first, higherrate, andanalyzing the pressure data recorded at the first, higherrate.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising recordingtimes of transmission with the temporarily and permanentlystored and recorded pressure data.

While the invention has been described with reference tospecific embodiments, modifications and variations of theinvention may be constmcted without departing from the 10scope of the invention, which is defined in the followingclaims. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising providinga time receiver at the sensor, receiving time signals at the15 sensor, and transmitting time indications with the pressuredata transmission.

The invention claimed is:1. A method for detecting dynamic transient pressurescomprising:installing a dynamic pressure sensor in an operating fluidchamber,measuring fluid pressures in the operating fluid chamber,transmitting data sample information from the dynamicpressure sensor to a receiver and signal processor,recording data sample information at a predeterminedinterval,analyzing data sanlples with the signal processor,identifYing transient pressures in the operating fluidchamber,increasing data sampling rates and/or data recording ratesduring transient detection until pressures reach steadystate,storing transient pressure data in internal memory, andanalyzing and displaying collected data alone or withother kinds of data from other sources, using a datamanagement program.2. The method of claim 1, further comprising definingtransient pressure parameters.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising transmit-ting potential information from the sensor.13. The method of claim 11, further comprising receiving20 position signals and generalizing position infonnation at thesensor and transmitting the position information with thetime indications and the pressure data.14. The method of clainl 9, further comprising determin-ing background level noise and removing background noise25 from the pressure data.15. The method of claim 9, wherein the fluid chamber isa pipeline and wherein the at least one sensor comprisesmultiple sensors, further comprising time and position signalreceivers connected to the sensors for receiving time and30 position signals and further comprising transmitting timeand position indications with the pressure data.16. The method of claim 9, further comprising identifYinga predetennined threshold pressure and alerting a user whenthe predetermined threshold is reached or exceeded.3. The method of clainl 1, further comprising installing 35multiple dynamic pressure sensors in an operating fluidchamber.

17. The method of claim 9 further comprising identifYingan unknown or illegal point of diversion of fluid from thechamber as a source of a transient pressure.4. The method of claim 3, further comprising identifyinga source of a transient pressure using two or more dynamicpressure sensors.5. The method of claim 3, further comprising analyzingdata from one or mUltiple test sites simultaneously.6. The method of claim 3, further comprising identifyingan unknown or illegal diversion of pressure.

40

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising recording 45time of transient detections using a clock or timer, anddetermining a source of transient pressure from the time ofdetection and other data characteristics.8. The method of claim 7, wherein the clock or timer is aGlobal Positioning System receiver.9. A method of detecting pressure transients in operatingfluid chambers comprising:defining pressure threshold in a chamber,installing at least one pressure sellsor in the chamber,sensing pressure in the chamber with the sensor,transmitting pressure data from the sensor to a receiver,temporarily storing the pressure data in a buffer at a first,higher sampling rate,periodically permanently storing the pressure data at asecond, lower rate,comparing the pressure data with the defined pressurethreshold,

50

55

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18. A method of monitoring pressure comprising:installing transient pressure sensors within an operatingfluid chamber,establishing predetennined data sampling rates,establishing predetermined sample data recording rates,establishing transient pressure parameters,measuring fluid pressures,transmitting fluid pressure sample data to a receiver andsignal processor,recording sample data at the predetermined recordingrates,analyzing sample data,comparing sample data to the transient pressure param-eters for identifYing transient pressures,increasing data sampling rates and data recording rates

during transient detection,storing transient data in internal memory,analyzing and displaying collected data, andreturning data sampling rates and data recording rates topredetermines rates when sample data returns to non-transient pressure parameters.

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Date post:	14-Apr-2018
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Pipeline Technologies v. Telog Instruments et. al.

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